Home > Mary Evans Prints Online > New Images July 2020
TONGAN BOXING 1870
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
TONGAN BOXING 1870
Pugilism in the Pacific as a crowd of Tongans fight during the Tow Tow festival. Date: 1870
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 20153791
© Bubblepunk
Boxing Festival Fight Pacific Pugilism Tongan
EDITORS COMMENTS
Tongan Boxing, 1870: A Captivating Display of Traditional Pugilism during the Tow Tow Festival This evocative photograph captures the raw energy and excitement of a Tongan boxing match during the Tow Tow festival in 1870. The image transports us back in time to the Pacific Islands, where the ancient Polynesian sport of pugilism held a significant place in the cultural fabric of Tongan society. The crowd, a sea of vibrant colors and animated faces, gathers around the combatants, their eyes fixed on the action unfolding before them. The boxers, dressed in traditional attire, engage in a fierce and determined battle, each trying to outmaneuver and outlast the other. The air is thick with anticipation and the palpable sense of competition. The Tow Tow festival, an annual event, was a time for the Tongan people to come together and celebrate their heritage. Pugilism, or 'pule' as it was known in Tonga, was an integral part of the festivities. This ancient martial art, which predated European influence, was a test of strength, skill, and endurance. The photograph offers a unique glimpse into the past, providing us with a window into the rich and complex history of Tongan culture. It serves as a reminder of the resilience and vitality of traditional practices, even in the face of external pressures and changing times. The image also underscores the universal appeal of sports and the human spirit, which transcends borders and generations.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.